In a changing sector, modern optician can no longer do without a store management software. These tools help streamline administrative tasks, save time and focus on the core: the client. Yet, many opticians still under-use these software because of lack of training or understanding of their potential. This article explores the benefits of these softwares, the key features to look for, and the leading publishers on the market in 2024.
Why management software is essential for opticians
Already in 2005, store management software was beginning to become a reality in opticians' daily lives. In 2024, they became unavoidable. Why such a craze? Because these tools allow Process optimization and considerable time savings.
Management software is designed to facilitate inventory management, order tracking, billing, and even teletransmission of health data. This allows the optician to focus on his core business: offer personalized advice to his customers and adjust their glasses with care.
In addition, with the possibility of integrating Electronic catalogues directly in the software, optician no longer needs to go through multiple platforms to access the product information of its suppliers.
The essential features of management software for opticians
Good management software for opticians offers a multitude of convenient and connected features. Some of the most important are:
1. Electronic catalogue management : Automatic recovery and integration of your suppliers' catalogues allows you to always have the latest product references, without having to enter the information manually.
2. Sending EDI orders : This connected feature allows order products directly from suppliers and receive delivery vouchers via EDI (computerised data interchange). No more papers and input errors!
3. Inventory management : Through direct interaction with suppliers, the software allows real-time tracking of your stock. You can instantly know which products are available, avoid breaks and optimize your orders.
4. Television transmission : The management of visual health records is facilitated by direct transmission to mandatory and complementary plans, which accelerates the processing of refunds for your clients.
5. Multi-store mode : If you manage multiple outlets, some software allows you to centrally manage your stores. This allows you to track sales, inventory and orders across your stores from a single platform.
The testimony of the opticians: a considerable gain of time
For many opticians, computerization represents a real breakthrough in terms of time management. Vincent Rolland, an optician in Rennes, testifies to the importance of well used management software : « Thanks to our software, we reduced our time spent on administrative tasks by half. This allows us to focus on the customer experience, which is our priority ». This testimony reflects the positive impact that successful software can have on day-to-day management.
This saving of time is particularly crucial when managing not only a large flow of customers, but also complex management tasks, such as relationships with mutuals and stock management of frames and glasses.
The leading software developers for opticians
In France, several publishers dispute the market for management software for opticians. Here is a list of the most prominent players and their solutions:
- 2ABL (AlphaVision): Known for its intuitive interface and its ability to easily integrate with third-party platforms.
- Atol (Atolsoft): Software specialized in the complete management of Atol outlets, but also open to independents.
- CIA (OptikLeader): A software oriented to inventory and sales management, highly appreciated for its ease of use.
- Cosium (Optical Cosium): This software offers a modular approach, allowing opticians to add or delete features according to their needs.
- Ocuco (Acuitas, Lio/Lio II): One of the biggest names on the market, with complete solutions for opticians of all sizes.
These softwares are connected to the platform Eyes-Road, which allows better management of exchanges between opticians and suppliers. Eyes-Road is a key infrastructure to automate the EDI and order management processes.
Choose the right software for your optical store
The selection of the right management software depends on the specific needs of each optician. For an independent, software like Cosium, flexible and modular, can be a good choice. For a multi-store chain, more robust solutions like Ocuco or Atolsoft will be more adapted.
It is important to also consider the technical support offered by the publisher, as well as the necessary training for optimal use. Too much opticians use less than 50% of their software capabilities, simply for lack of knowledge.
Future evolution of management software for opticians
With the rise of the Teleconsultation and online services, management software for opticians will continue to evolve. It is possible to expect ever-increasing integrations with technologies such as augmented reality, which would allow customers to try glasses virtually, or even post-sales monitoring services higher performance.
Management tools will also integrate more big data and artificial intelligence to offer even more personalised services to customers, based on their purchasing habits and specific needs.
Management software, a profitable investment
Adopt a store management software for your optical point of sale is no longer an option, but a necessity in the competitive world of optics. It is not just a tool to simplify administrative tasks, but a real growth lever to optimize inventory management, improve customer service and increase the profitability of your business.
Whether you are an independent optician or run multiple stores, it is essential to choose software that meets your specific needs and can evolve with your business. Take the time to thoroughly analyze the various options available in the market, and make sure to train your team to make the most of this essential technology.
